• By Manik Sharma
  • Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:04 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND
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During the Australia-Sri Lanka World Cup match at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium, strong winds led to a dramatic incident as hoardings fell from the stadium's roof.

The occurrence transpired following a rain delay, when a dust storm and heavy winds dislodged several iron angles with branding material from the roof, which landed on the lower-level seats. Fortunately, the stands were relatively empty at the time, mitigating potential disaster.

However, it did prompt panic among the spectators, leading to a public announcement urging them to seek safety in higher seats. Security measures were subsequently taken to relocate all spectators to the higher levels before the second innings commenced.

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"Thankfully everybody appears to be ok. Strong winds have caused some re-arranging of Ekana Stadium! 💨 #CWC2, " Cricket Australia posted on their official social media handle showing concern.

The Ekana Stadium, which recently hosted its first World Cup game featuring Australia and South Africa, is set to host the highly anticipated India versus England match on October 29.

After losing the toss, Australia staged a remarkable comeback as Sri Lanka lost their last nine wickets for just 52 runs, posting a total of 209 in their World Cup clash in Lucknow. The Sri Lankan openers had established a strong start of 125-0 with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera scoring fifties.

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Despite a slight struggle by the Aussie bowlers in the beginning, Pat Cummins played a pivotal role, removing both openers and setting the stage for Australia's resurgence. Adam Zampa and Mitchell Starc made significant contributions to leave Sri Lanka struggling.

As the innings progressed, Zampa found his rhythm and dismissed the in-form Kusal Mendis. Sri Lanka's wickets tumbled rapidly, and a brief rain delay failed to halt the momentum. The last six fell for only 32 runs. Glenn Maxwell put the finishing touches on a lacklustre display by Sri Lanka's batsmen.

Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, which is the home venue for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Indian Premier League (IPL), was included in the list of grounds that will host the matches of the World Cup.